Materials Engineer

Optical Cable Corporation • Roanoke, VA, US, VA

1h • $59,477 - $99,129 • Onsite

About The Position

This engineering position will lead the organization in managing the plastic materials and extrusion possessing technology in the plant. The engineer will lead the engineering department in material selection, qualification and defining an efficient extrusion process. The engineer will define and manage extruder technology and process equipment requirements. Independent decision making, project management and leadership in a process development and manufacturing environment will be essential in the success of the engineer in this role. All levels of engineering work from research and development to industrialization of processes in the plant are expected. Polymer Science knowledge and the relationship with extrusion process will be necessary.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science in Plastics Engineering, Polymer Science, Materials Engineering, Chemical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering with a Polymers focus from an accredited institution
• Entry level or experience in processing polymers in a manufacturing environment
• A strong technical ability to understand and implement engineering concepts and to perform independently
• Good material science and extrusion process knowledge will be vital to the success in this position.
• Leadership skill to help guide the organization in the area of material science and plastic extrusion technology are essential
• The position will require an individual with good communication skills and the ability to deal with people in an effective and professional manner. Will handle regular communications with all levels of sales, production and engineering staff.
• Effective planning/organizational skills with a demonstrated ability to multi-task and set priorities.
• Evidence of taking initiative and/or leading projects.
• History of working independently and as a member of a team.
• Strong problem solving skills with evidence of systematic approach for identifying problems, root-cause analysis, and implementing the "fix".
• Excellent computer skills – 50% of the work will be on a computer with a variety of software – Word, Excel, Access and ERP systems.
• Extensive knowledge and use of MS excel to clearly communicate data to all levels of audiences is required.
• The individual will need to be able to manage multiple tasks on a tight schedule.
• Have a basic understanding of polymer science testing methods.
• Basic knowledge of regulatory requirements for polymers as they related to US and international flame and smoke generation requirements.
• This role involves work contracted by the U.S. government and/or other federal agencies, which requires that all personnel involved in such work are U.S. citizens or Lawful Permanent Residents. Thus, a qualified candidate for this position must be able to present valid documentation indicating that they are a U.S. citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident.

Responsibilities

• Leadership responsibility on the qualification and development of materials and related process technology for fiber optic cable extrusion processes for a variety of materials including PVC, PVDF, Polyethylene, Polyurethane and others.
• Provide material, additive and colorant knowledge to the Product Engineers.
• Research and understand processes related to polymers and additives. Maintain relationships with polymer/color vendors, manufacturing facilities and product engineering.
• Analyze and troubleshoot polymer related performance issues based on product design and processing.
• Design, develop and review with Test and Product Engineer(s) product testing related to finished product performance specifications.
• Interface with manufacturing to ensure materials and processes are efficiently producing products to internal and external requirements.
• Train personnel to understand the interaction of materials and extrusion parameters on the final product performance will be necessary.
• Promotes OCC’s service excellence and quality. Provides excellent service to customers; builds strong relationships and team cohesiveness; focuses on quality and positive solutions; communicates respectfully; demonstrates compassion and understanding in response to customer request/needs.
• Champions OCC’s mission, vision and values (as detailed in our 15 Essential Points of Success); complies with policies and procedures, ethical standards and Code of Conduct.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level